Ecuador
Sound Recordings from Río Bigal Biological Reserve
This page features a selection of sound recordings from Río Bigal Biological Reserve, a private protected area situated in north-eastern Ecuador. In early 2025 I spent five days recording sounds in the reserve and during the stay I was able to document the calls of over 100 species of birds, frogs and insects, as well as capture many hours of diurnal and nocturnal ambiences (and plenty of rain!).
Established by Sumac Muyu Foundation in 2008, the Río Bigal Biological Reserve currently protects around 1500 hectares of primary foothill rainforest in a buffer zone adjacent to Parque Nacional Sumaco-Napo-Galeras. The location is an important corridor between the Amazonian lowlands to the east and the Andean highlands to the west, and contains some of the highest levels of biodiversity and endemism in the world.
With almost 600 species of bird recorded, Río Bigal Biological Reserve is a paradise for birders. It is one of the top three ebird hotspots in all of Ecuador in terms of number of species documented.
Exploring the stunning old growth forest on one of the many excellent trails in the reserve.
A field station has been built in the western part of the reserve where there is an extensive network of over 30 km of walking trails for exploring the forest. Río Bigal Biological Reserve welcomes visitors, from researchers and biology students to citizen-science volunteers, birders and other wildlife enthusiasts. Accommodation options include the main research station, a selection of cabins, and rustic camping platforms. Meals and transportation can be provided.
Support Río Bigal Biological Reserve
Sumac Muyu Foundation actively safeguards the reserve, employing a team of rangers and staff to support its conservation work. As a non-profit organization, the foundation depends on donations and fundraising to sustain these efforts. They also work with local communities to promote conservation through various environmental and educational projects. Visit the Bigal River Biological Reserve website to learn more, or connect with them on Facebook.
Listen to Recordings
Screaming Pihas
A characteristic sound of the Amazon – the loud calls of Screaming Pihas.
Musician Wren
The elaborate, melodic song of one of the Amazon’s finest voices – the Musician Wren.
Excerpt from album.
Dawn in the Rainforest
Vibrant birdsong at first light in Rio Bigal as the rainforest awakens to a new day.
Excerpt from album.
Dusk Ambience
Dusk ambience with Thrush Antpitta, Amazonian Umbrellabird & Rufous Motmot.
Excerpt from album.
Nocturnal Ambience
Night ambience with Nocturnal Curassow, Band-bellied Owl & Grey-winged Trumpeter.
Excerpt from album.
Frog Chorus
Intense frog chorus with Painted Forest Toadlets & other species in an ephemeral pool.
Trumpeters
The bizarre humming calls of Grey-winged Trumpeters with frogs at night.
Excerpt from album.
Thunder at Night
The sound of an approaching thunderstorm at night with frogs & insects.
Excerpt from album.
Albums
These two albums directly support rainforest conservation
Donations will be made directly to Río Bigal Biological Reserve / Sumac Muyu Foundation. Funds help maintain, protect and expand the reserve.
The Amazon: Río Bigal Biological Reserve
The Amazon: Río Bigal Night
Photos from Río Bigal
Setting up to record sounds in the forest.
The basic accommodation is clean & comfortable
Bring a raincoat!
Pristine hill forest in Río Bigal Biological Reserve.
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